President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has said that he is trying to end the status quo as a country that needs constant aid.

Speaking to the people of Holhudhoo island this evening as part of the President's visit to the islands of N. Atoll, the President said that the economy is being expanded for the purpose of carrying out important projects.

"We need to bring an end to the status quo of being a country that needs constant aid. Even if basic food grains are to be imported, prolonged foreign presence in the country needs to end. We need to end relying on foreign aid to monitor our seas as well," he said.

The President said that efforts are being made to put the country on its own feet in order to provide true freedom to the Maldivians and that he has pledged to make the country a true independent country.

"So, we are also trying to achieve economic freedom to fulfil that promise. We are also trying to get the freedom to take care of this area of ours and stand on our own feet. I am hopeful that everyone will see results soon," he said.